Allman Brothers Band lose two guitarists

The Allman Brothers Band are set to lose two members after guitarists Derek Trucks and Warren Haynes confirmed they’re moving on.

They’ll see out the band’s 45th anniversary year before departing to concentrate on other projects.

Gov’t Mule man Haynes has been with the Allmans for 25 years, while Trucks – who works with his wife Susan Tedeschi in the Tedeschi Trucks Band – has been there 15 years.

They say in a joint statement: “We will be forever grateful for the opportunity and the experience, and for the love, enthusiasm, and support of the incredible fans. We are both preparing to dig even deeper into our various creative and musical endeavours; and, as a result, 2014 will be our final year as part of the band.”

Haynes comments: “I joined the Allman Brothers Band in 1989 at age 28 for a reunion tour, with no promise or expectations of it going any further. Based on the uncanny chemistry we decided to continue and see where it all led. Now, here we are, 25 years later, and it has been an amazing experience.

“Being part of the ABB has opened a lot of doors for me and that’s something I don’t take for granted. The 45th anniversary is a milestone amidst too many highlights to count – I’m looking forward to an amazing year creating music that only the Allman Brothers Band can create.”

Trucks says: “I got the call to join at the age of 19. I leapt at the chance. I didn’t know how long it would last, only that I would let the music lead me and teach me.

“While I’ve shared many magical moments I feel that my solo project and the Tedeschi Trucks Band is where my future and creative energy lies. It’s a difficult decision to make, and I don’t make it lightly. Now seems like a good time to go out on a high note and in the mutual respect and friendship of the other six members.”

The band recently denied rumours of a line-up change after Greg Allman suggested bassist Otiel Burbridge was leaving. Burbridge revealed he’d been offered another role but had refused it.

Meanwhile, it’s been confirmed that William Hurt will play Gregg Allman in the biopic based on his autobiography My Cross To Bear.